Feels So Good cover

Feels So Good

Chuck Mangione · 1977

45 min · 6 tracks · jazz

Lush melodies intertwine with vibrant brass arrangements, creating a smooth yet dynamic jazz fusion experience.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Feels So Good — This track stands out as the album's centerpiece, combining catchy melodies with intricate brass harmonies that exemplify Mangione's signature style.
  • →
    Maui-Waui — With its tropical feel and expansive arrangement, this piece captures the essence of relaxation while showcasing Mangione's adeptness at blending genres.
  • →
    Last Dance — This track showcases a dynamic shift with its emotive themes and rhythmic complexity, illustrating Mangione's versatility as a composer and performer.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental
59 /100
Treeline
Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong melodies and arrangements, contributing to its appeal in both jazz and mainstream circles.

What we noticed

  • The title track features a prominent flugelhorn melody that is supported by layered brass harmonies and a steady rhythm section.
  • Each of the six tracks maintains a consistent mid-tempo groove, with dynamic shifts in instrumentation that keep the listener engaged.
  • The album closes with a track that introduces a more complex arrangement, layering multiple melodic lines that create a rich texture.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo groove
  • for relaxed gatherings
  • melodic flugelhorn highlights
  • inviting danceable rhythms

Maybe skip if you

  • seek instant gratification
  • prefer fast-paced tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
In 1977, Chuck Mangione was riding high from his previous success, particularly with the hit 'Feels So Good' which helped him transition from jazz musician to mainstream popularity. This album served as a cornerstone in his career, following his breakthrough with the Grammy-winning 'Children of Sanchez' and establishing him as a prominent figure in the smooth jazz genre.
Stylistic neighbors
Herbie Hancock· David Sanborn· Spyro Gyra

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Feels So Good 9:42
  • 2 Maui-Waui 10:13
  • 3 Theme From "Side Street" 2:05
  • 4 Hide & Seek (Ready or Not Here I Come) 6:25
  • 5 Last Dance 10:54
  • 6 The XIth Commandment 6:37

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata